The Council of the European Union has declined to provide further information on the Commission's reported plans to establish an internal 'intelligence cell', stating that it has not received or examined any proposals of that nature. In a written answer to a question from MEP Christine Anderson (ESN), the Council said it had nothing to add to its previous reply to Written Question E-004612/2025, in which it declined to comment on press reports. The answer, dated 10 July 2026, also noted that interpreting the Treaties does not fall within the Council's competences, sidestepping questions about the compatibility of such a structure with Article 4(2) TEU, which reserves national security as the sole responsibility of Member States.
The question followed the Commission's confirmation on 6 March 2026 that it is considering setting up an internal intelligence-analysis cell to complement its analytical capacities. MEP Anderson had asked whether the Council or its preparatory bodies had discussed the plans, whether Member States considered the initiative compatible with the Treaties, and whether they had been consulted on sharing intelligence with such a structure. The Council's answer effectively defers to the Commission and avoids taking a position on the legal or political implications.
The exchange highlights a growing tension between EU institutions over the boundaries of national security competence. While the Commission appears to be exploring ways to enhance its analytical capabilities, the Council's response suggests that Member States have not been formally engaged on the matter. The absence of any concrete proposal before the Council means that the legal and operational questions raised by the MEP remain unanswered for now. No further institutional follow-up is expected until the Commission tables a formal initiative.